Walk A Mile in Their Shoes...

..or in this case their moccasins...

This commemorative orange crosswalk is installed on traditional and treaty territory of the Williams Treaties First Nation, where now sits the Regional Municipality of Durham headquarters. I had to go there this morning to get my Covid vaccination #6...and I unexpectedly came away thinking of residential schools! Who knew? 

I did as requested..."As you pass this crosswalk, pause and reflect on the legacy of colonialism and the devastating impact of residential schools".

I think it worked, as I actually did reflect...I know a lot of us do that on September 30, the day all Canadians are encouraged to wear orange in memory of the tragic impact of residential schools, but methinks it deserves more than one day..

There is a plaque saying that the crosswalk is the work of visual artist Jon Colwell, Proud Member of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and it also explains why moccasins...

 "Moccasins are strong and resilient and worn by many Indigenous Peoples.They are made to reflect the heritage and culture of the maker and wearer, offer a connection to the ground and provide spiritual protection through patterns and symbols.These moccasins represent the paths taken by all our relations in the past and our present commitment to walk beside Indigenous communities"

The plaque also reads..."The Regional Municipality of Durham is grateful for the opportunity to continue building meaningful and respectful relationships on our pathway to reconciliation."

And I say kudos to the Regional Muncipality of Durham.

PS: There is also a display in the foyer explaining the Medicine Wheel and the Seven Teachings..but it is behind glass - so not great for photos!